坏了
我的手机坏了，不能用了。
My phone is broken and can't be used.
To be broken, out of order, or malfunctioning.
电脑坏了，修不好了。
The computer is broken and can't be fixed.
车子坏了，只能走路了。
The car broke down, so I have to walk.
Often used to describe mechanical or electronic devices failing. Can also imply a situation going wrong in a broader sense.
To be ruined or spoiled (of plans, moods, etc.).
下雨了，我们的野餐计划坏了。
It rained, so our picnic plans are ruined.
他迟到了，把整个会议的气氛都坏了。
He was late and ruined the whole meeting's atmosphere.
Used metaphorically for intangible things like plans, moods, or atmospheres.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage in Different Contexts
坏了 can be used for both physical objects (e.g., 我的电视坏了) and abstract concepts (e.g., 他的心情坏了). Pay attention to the context to determine whether it refers to a mechanical failure or a ruined plan/mood.
Gold Rule
坏了 vs. 坏掉
'坏了' is more commonly used in spoken Chinese to describe a current state of being broken, while '坏掉' emphasizes the process of breaking down. For example, '电脑坏了' (the computer is broken) is more natural than '电脑坏掉了' in most contexts.
Word Origin
Composed of '坏' (huài, meaning 'bad' or 'broken') and the aspect particle '了' (le), indicating completion or change of state.
Usage Notes
坏了 is a common colloquial phrase used in spoken Chinese to indicate that something has stopped working or gone wrong. It can refer to physical objects, plans, or even emotional states. The phrase is often used in the present tense to describe a current state of failure or ruin.